U Hlaing Bwa, born in 1950 in Yangon, is full-time artist since he studied under the old master U Thein Han in the 1970’s. His bold brush strokes and creative color schemes are reminiscent of the European Impressionist style, with Monet as a significant source of inspiration. His artworks often depict the tranquil Myanmar: the scenic Bagan, colorful Shan State, vibrant market places and solitary women lost in contemplation.

Notably, U Hlaing Bwa frequently portrays his family and neighbors in his art, with his wife, sister-in-law and nieces often serving as subjects. Over the years, he has painted a series of children as his nieces grew up, and he later focused on young ladies in rooms adorned with flowers, which has become one of his signature motifs.

Hlaing Bwa’s work has been exhibited extensively, both in Myanmar and abroad. His paintings were showcased in Myanmar from 1979 to 2000, and internationally in countries like China (1982), Australia (1990), Singapore and Thailand (1995), the USA (2003, 2004, 2007, 2008, 2010, 2012) and Indonesia (2007).

His artistic contributions are also recognized in books such as “Myanmar Painting: From Worship to Self-Imaging” (2006) and “Burmese Painting: A Linear and Lateral History” (2009).